Kenya Reaffirms Commitment To HIV Response Amid U.S. Funding Pause

The Ministry of Health has assured Kenyans that the country’s HIV response will remain on track despite disruptions caused by the U.S. Executive Order, which imposes a 90-day pause on foreign development assistance.

Speaking during a high-level consultative meeting with the Council of Governors, Parliament, and development partners, Health Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa emphasized Kenya’s need for localized solutions.

She was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Harry Kimtai, the Director General for Health, and other senior officials.

Dr. Barasa highlighted Kenya’s progress in HIV management, noting that antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage has increased from 41% in 2013 to 97% in 2023.

While international partnerships have played a crucial role, she stressed the importance of transitioning to a self-sustaining health system.

She urged county governments to allocate more funds to HIV programs through the Facilities Improvement Fund (FIF) and called on Parliament to prioritize health financing in the national budget.

She emphasized that strengthening domestic funding is critical to ensuring long-term resilience.

The Health CS also revealed that the government has been engaging with the U.S. administration to understand the impact of the executive order and advocate for advance notice in future policy decisions.

“Kenya’s HIV response remains strong and resilient. We urge calm, unity, and collective action to protect our progress,” Dr. Barasa affirmed.